Sharief, Haitian brothers to be honored

Business owner and politician Barbara Sharief will be among entrepreneurs to be honored when Hispanic Unity of Florida hosts Entrepreneur Summit 2011.

The event, scheduled for Tuesday, May 10 will bring together emerging and established business people and “showcase the diverse array of businesses that contribute to the South Florida regional economy,” according to Josie Bacallao, president and CEO of Hispanic Unity of Florida.

“For many, achieving the ‘American Dream’ means owning and sustaining a business,” Bacallao said in a statement announcing the event. “The Entrepreneur Summit builds on the success of the economic development programs and services we have offered for nearly a decade. Our goal is to link emerging entrepreneurs from all across South Florida with those who can offer solid, practical and tested advice on what it takes to succeed.”

George Feldenkreis, CEO of Perry Ellis International, will be the keynote speaker at the event’s luncheon.

The summit is being presented by Maroone, a member of AutoNation. Gale Butler, vice-president for corporate affairs, said the giant auto dealership is “committed to strengthening our community and ensuring our residents have access to the necessary resources to fortify their businesses and our economy.”

“Entrepreneurs are leading the way toward economic stability and growth and this event is a model resource for business owners in our free enterprise system,” Butler said.

Sharief, who was elected last November to the Broward County Commission and is founder and CEO of South Florida Pediatric Homecare, will be among several honorees who will be recognized during the event.

Others include Manny and Jean Cherubin, brothers from Haiti who own two TV stations and two radio stations through their TeleAmerica company.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Hispanic Unity of Florida’s Entrepreneur Summit 2011

WHEN: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesday, May 10

WHERE: Hyatt Bonaventure Resort & Spa, 250 Racquet Club Rd., Weston

COST: $80 for prior registration, $95 day of event, with limited availability